Identifying Issues of a Web Accessibility Service through Examining Its Online Learning Activities

Abstract

In Taiwan, a Web Accessibility Service was e stablished in 2004, which provides online courses for adult learners with disabilities to acquire job-oriented skills, particularly computer skills. Although a large number of learners have registered for the courses, the percentage of learners who complete their study is rather low. The purpose of this study is to identify issues related to the current services through examining the online learning activities of its participants in the 2012 term. Data sources consist of discussion statements posted online, discourse of online meetings, and self-reported questionnaires. The results indicate that the Service support team was rather dedicated to maintaining the system and courses offered. The learners who submitted the online questionnaires also appeared rather satisfied with the overall services provided. It seems that the low study completion rate, 5.4% in 2012, may not be due to the services per se. Other factors causing the low completion rate must be further explored. Suggestions of future directions for improving the services are provided.